Two candles of the same mass, one wide and short and the other thin and tall, are placed in identical jars as shown below and lit at the same time. Lids are then placed on each jar. Which candle goes out first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The short candle has a larger surface area relative to its mass, so it will burn more quickly than the thin and tall candle. The lid on each jar will cause the flame to use up available oxygen more quickly, further contributing to the shorter candle burning out faster. Therefore, the short candle will go out first.

Two Candles of the Same Mass, One Wide and Short